Bentonite Hills

"Nestled within the rugged terrain of Capitol Reef National Park, the Bentonite Hills offer an adventurous trek through striking landscapes. This longer excursion requires careful planning, as it spans approximately 8 miles round trip and can take around 4-6 hours to complete, depending on your pace. The trail's moderate to strenuous difficulty level presents a rewarding challenge for seasoned hikers, with rugged terrain and elevation changes to navigate. Accessing the Bentonite Hills may pose a challenge without a 4x4 vehicle, particularly in adverse weather conditions or during winter months when snow and ice can make the journey more treacherous. However, for those equipped and prepared, the Bentonite Hills promise a memorable exploration of Capitol Reef's natural beauty and geologic wonders. Unfortunately, my boyfriend and I did not make it to this trail due to an injury sustained during a ski trip in Salt Lake City."

"The last stretch of the dirt 4x4 Cathedral Valley Loop road is a rough traverse through a second area of Bentonite Hills. We think this area is very photogenic, so be sure to stop for photos! "

"Not too far away from Hanksville, you can really feel like you are on Mars. It is not the easiest place to find, but when you do it's so worth it!"